A poignant poem by Xavier Marrs, aged 11, inspired by his recent studies of world wars, current conflicts and his interest in wildlife.
I am just one
It is strapped so tight,
The canister that could be my blight.
I see my friends and coo.
Time to go,
And will not slow.
I see the broken land and coo.
My life is a poisoned chance,
A completely useless dance.
I see the journey and coo.
I will see my family,
Though they wait anxiously.
I see my mate and coo.
I am just one,
Who will know when I am gone.
I see the world and coo.
The message is heavy,
My wings are not steady.
I see the destination and coo.
I feel your hate,
No need to sedate.
I see my worth and coo.
The gunfire beat in my ears,
No matter my fears.
I see my species and coo.
I am their target,
I am their carpet.
I see the bullet and co-.
I was a "war pigeon",
All those before me have no chance.
I see the others but it's too late I cannot coo.
